Brussels sprouts | Organic, Nutritional Value, Health Benefits (2024)

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Also known as: Brassica oleracea, variety gemmifera

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The Editors of Encyclopaedia Britannica Encyclopaedia Britannica's editors oversee subject areas in which they have extensive knowledge, whether from years of experience gained by working on that content or via study for an advanced degree. They write new content and verify and edit content received from contributors.

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Brussels sprouts, (Brassica oleracea, variety gemmifera), form of cabbage, belonging to the mustard family Brassicaceae, widely grown in Europe and North America for its edible buds called “sprouts.” Brussels sprouts may have been grown in Belgium as early as 1200, but the first recorded description of it dates to 1587. Brussels sprouts usually are eaten cooked, and the small young sprouts have a more delicate flavour than older ones. The vegetable is a good source of dietary fibre, folic acid, manganese, and vitamins A, C, and K.

In its seedling stage and early development, the plant closely resembles the common cabbage, but the main stem grows to a height of 60 to 90 cm (2 to 3 feet), and the axillary buds along the stem develop into small heads (sprouts) similar to heads of cabbage but measuring only 25 to 40 mm (1 to 1.6 inches) in diameter. Most varieties have green sprouts, but red-leaved varieties have also been developed. Though commonly grown as annuals, Brussels sprouts are biennial plants and will produce yellow flowers with four petals if kept for two seasons. Seeds are borne in silique fruits. The plant requires a mild cool climate and is harmed by hot weather.

Britannica QuizFruit or Vegetable? A Quiz
Brussels sprouts | Organic, Nutritional Value, Health Benefits (2024)

FAQs

Brussels sprouts | Organic, Nutritional Value, Health Benefits? ›

Eating a lot of Brussels sprouts and other cruciferous veggies may help protect against cancers of the stomach, lungs, kidney, breast, bladder, and prostate. Crunchy veggies like Brussels sprouts may also help you stave off other health issues, such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, heart disease, and diabetes.

What are the benefits of eating Brussels sprouts? ›

Eating a lot of Brussels sprouts and other cruciferous veggies may help protect against cancers of the stomach, lungs, kidney, breast, bladder, and prostate. Crunchy veggies like Brussels sprouts may also help you stave off other health issues, such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, heart disease, and diabetes.

Is it OK to eat Brussels sprouts everyday? ›

Is it OK to eat Brussels sprouts everyday? Go for it. “If you enjoy sprouts and can tolerate them, absolutely! They're lower in calories and contain a myriad of important nutrients” says Snyder.

Which is better for you, broccoli or Brussels sprouts? ›

While broccoli may have a higher count of calories, fat, and carbs, it is richer in calcium, iron, and pantothenic acid (a B vitamin that does wonders for healthy hair), and has a bit more potassium. Brussels sprouts, on the other hand, are lower in sodium.

What is the healthiest way to eat Brussels sprouts? ›

Roasting Brussels sprouts caramelizes their natural sugar and mellows out bitter notes, providing rich flavor and a crispier texture. Brussels sprouts are a good source of fiber and vitamins C and K, notes the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health.

Are Brussel sprouts a superfood? ›

Brussels sprouts are high in fiber, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, making them a nutritious addition to your diet.

Do Brussels sprouts clean your liver? ›

Brussel Sprouts

They stimulate detox enzymes found in the liver and may also be protective to cells. This enzyme action helps remove toxins from the blood and support the liver. Brussels sprouts also contain antioxidants that prevent cell damage.

Why do bodybuilders eat brussel sprouts? ›

The chemical compound sulforaphane in sprouts also reduces cell death, which is crucial to sustaining muscle mass and facilitating fast recovery after a heavy session. A tasty bit of nutritional science, we're sure you'll agree.

When should you not eat Brussels sprouts? ›

If any of the leaves have brown spots or are yellowing, it's a sign of early spoilage. If you remove the blemished leaves and the interior looks OK, you can still use the sprout. However, if the interior leaves are also showing blemishes or yellowing, it's best to toss it (or compost it, if you can).

Are brussel sprouts healthier raw or cooked? ›

When Brussels sprouts are cooked, they may undergo some nutrient changes. Levels of the antioxidant vitamins E and K increase during cooking, but levels of some water-soluble nutrients, such as vitamin C, decrease.

Which is healthier cabbage or brussel sprouts? ›

There are also nutritional differences - cabbage has fewer calories than Brussels sprouts, but also fewer nutrients, with sprouts containing higher concentrations of vitamins A and C, Folic Acid, Potassium, Magnesium and Phosphorus.

Why do you soak Brussels sprouts before cooking? ›

Not only can soaking make the centers more malleable, but the water that's absorbed into them will create a steaming action, whether you choose to roast, saute, or make your Brussels sprouts in your air fryer. The steam can help to ensure the cooking is even throughout the Brussels sprout.

How long do Brussels sprouts last in the fridge? ›

Even though Brussels sprouts can last up to a week in the fridge, sometimes a little longer, their taste gets stronger and less sweet with time. They are at their best when prepared within three to four days of purchase. Avoid washing Brussels sprouts until you're ready to prepare them, as the moisture can cause decay.

Are brussel sprouts good for gut bacteria? ›

Being rich in sulphur, brassica vegetables like brussels sprouts may support gut health, and as a result improve your defence against infection, as well as conditions like colorectal cancer.

Do brussel sprouts burn belly fat? ›

Brussel sprouts are considered a natural weight loss food because they are high in fibre and protein and low in fat and calories. The perfect vegetable to shed tummy fat, Brussel sprouts also hold other health benefits for your nutrition.

Are Brussel sprouts healthier, raw or cooked? ›

When Brussels sprouts are cooked, they may undergo some nutrient changes. Levels of the antioxidant vitamins E and K increase during cooking, but levels of some water-soluble nutrients, such as vitamin C, decrease.

Which is healthier, cabbage or Brussels sprouts? ›

There are also nutritional differences - cabbage has fewer calories than Brussels sprouts, but also fewer nutrients, with sprouts containing higher concentrations of vitamins A and C, Folic Acid, Potassium, Magnesium and Phosphorus.

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